In 1971 Mount Vernon Place Monument and Parks were designated as a national historic landmark and one of the most beautiful earthen spots in America. Initially the Parks were just open spaces comprised of four blocks centered around the Washington Monument. Over the years the parks were gradually improved and in 1876 Frederick Law Olmstead, Sr. was one of the first to redesigned the squares. However today, the four blocks of Mount Vernon Place reflect a redesign by the prominent New York architectural firm Carrere & Hastings. The parks now have a neo-classical styling with white marble balustrades, low walls and fountains.

Click on a park to view the gallery.
Rollover the image for next/previous arrows.